Stir-Fry Lemongrass Beef Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Marinade:
  • 500g (1 lb) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• For the Stir-Fry:
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 stalks lemongrass, finely minced (white part only)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 shallots, thinly sliced
  • 1 red chili, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
  • Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Beef:
   • In a large bowl, combine the fish sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, cornstarch, and vegetable oil.
   • Add the thinly sliced beef and mix well to ensure all pieces are coated with the marinade.
   • Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably up to 1 hour, in the refrigerator.
2. Prepare the Vegetables and Aromatics:
   • Finely mince the lemongrass (use only the tender white part), garlic, and thinly slice the shallots, red chili, bell pepper, and onion.
3. Cook the Beef:
   • Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat until shimmering.
   • Add the marinated beef in a single layer and sear until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Do this in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
   • Remove the beef from the wok and set aside.
4. Stir-Fry the Aromatics and Vegetables:
   • In the same wok, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
   • Add the minced lemongrass, garlic, shallots, and red chili (if using). Stir-fry for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
   • Add the sliced bell pepper and onion, and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
5. Combine and Season:
   • Return the cooked beef to the wok.
   • Add the fish sauce, soy sauce, and sugar. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through.
   • Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Serve:
   • Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or green onions.
   • Serve hot with cooked rice or noodles.

Tips for Success:

• Beef Selection: Choose a tender cut of beef like sirloin or flank steak for the best texture. Freezing the beef slightly can make it easier to slice thinly.
• Marinade Time: Allow the beef to marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors fully.
• High Heat: Stir-frying is a quick cooking method, so ensure your wok or skillet is hot before adding the ingredients to achieve a nice sear and maintain the vegetables’ crisp-tender texture.
• Lemongrass Preparation: Peel off the tough outer layers of the lemongrass and use only the tender white part. Mince it finely to release its fragrant oils.

Enjoy your delicious stir-fry lemongrass beef, a flavorful and aromatic dish that’s sure to impress!